Breastfeeding: a few tips for the young mom.
Whether you’re a first-time mom or you already have children, it’s good to consider what will work best for you and your baby.
No one breastfeeding experience is the same as any other, neither for the mom nor the baby. For example, you might’ve had a very positive experience with your first baby and a less positive one with your second one. Babies also all respond differently to breastfeeding. It’s very normal to struggle with this, and eventually, you’ll be able to make your own choice on whether or not to breastfeed.
Do I have enough milk for my baby?
Starting at about week 24 of the pregnancy, your body will begin producing colostrum. Colostrum is the first milk that is produced when you begin breastfeeding, and it’s the ideal food for a newborn baby. It’s very concentrated and full of proteins, nutrients, and antibodies that are great for the baby. During the first few days after your baby is born, your baby won’t need a large amount of it.
After a few days, the normal milk production will begin. The more you stimulate your breasts by directly breastfeeding or by pumping with a breast pump - the more you’ll produce. That’s why it’s very important to feed your baby or pump every two to three hours.
Breastfeeding: we have tips for you!
Below, we’ll give you a few tips to make breastfeeding go as smoothly as possible.
Relax!
This is actually the most important tip! Babies can tell if you’re stressed or nervous. That’ll make latching on more difficult for the baby. Make sure that both you and your baby are comfortable and at ease. For some, this means only breastfeeding in your bedroom, while others might comfortably do it around visiting guests. Keep in mind: If it feels right to you, it is right (no matter what others say!)
Take a deep breath and visualize that you’re in a safe space where you’re able to relax (such as a beautiful vacation spot you’ve visited) before you begin your feeding.
Let your baby decide when
Don’t worry if your baby wants to be fed longer or shorter than what you’ve read about in the books. There is no prescribed time on how long a feeding session should take. Just assume that your little one knows best when they want to be fed and how long they want to be fed. So, if your baby sleeps in late which makes you miss the three-hour window, no worries. As long as your baby has proper poop and pee diapers and is growing properly, it doesn’t do any harm. Trust yourself and your baby.
Mind your posture
Let’s be honest: you’re probably going to spend a lot of time breastfeeding. So, make sure to watch your posture and make it comfortable for both you and your baby. Ensure that your back, shoulders, and neck are properly supported during breastfeeding. Multiple positions are possible, so choose the one that works best for you two.
Drink enough!
Besides nutrients, your body needs a lot of fluid in order to breastfeed. This means you have to drink a lot of water! At least 1.5 to 2 liters a day (that’s 10 to 15 glasses). It’s good practice to drink one or two glasses of water whenever you’re feeding your baby.
Mind your diet!
After not being able to eat sushi, prosciutto, and cheese boards for over 9 months, you’ll certainly want to gorge yourself on them now. Definitely do that! But, be aware that, while you’re breastfeeding, it’s still good to mind what and how much you’re eating. Your meals should be full of the proper nutrients for you and your baby. Your baby could have a reaction to certain foods that you’re eating (such as certain spices, cruciferous vegetables, and spicy foods)! It’s also important to eat enough, since you burn a lot of calories (500 calories) because of your milk production. So, pack a few snacks for yourself in a (diaper)bag for on the road, and certainly don’t skip any meals. It’s also not a good idea to follow a low-carb diet when you’re breastfeeding!
A few examples of nutrient-dense foods are:
Green leafy vegetables are full of vitamin B
Salmon and avocado contain healthy fatty acids
White beans, kidney beans, and lentils are good for your iron level
You can consider taking supplements if you feel that you are not following a healthy diet, but always do so after consulting with your doctor. Examples of supplements that you might consider include a multivitamin and a mineral complex for young mothers, and an Omega-3 supplement.
Use tools
If you were to believe everything you’re told, your house would be filled to the brim with gadgets and things you supposedly need to breastfeed. Our tip? Listen to your own feelings, and what you and your baby need. You know best!
A few useful things (though that isn’t true for everyone) to have around are nursing pads (they keep your clothes clean), a breast pump (they come in different sizes and prices), a nursing bra or a nursing shirt, and perhaps a (feeding) pillow to support your arm or back.
Involve your partner
If you have a partner, don’t hesitate to involve them in breastfeeding. They can offer you emotional support, grab you a glass of water, or do other things you might need. Sometimes it’s also just nice to enjoy the moment together.
Ask for help!
You could’ve read all the books and websites available to you, and still, it’ll be a very personal experience. What works for one person may not work for another. Asking for help from others is totally fine. Do know that some people might have very useful tips, while others give you advice that feels useless. That’s totally normal. It’s your breastfeeding journey. If you can’t figure it out, consult a lactation expert. There’s nothing wrong with doing so, and they can help you create order and figure out what works for you. That’s nothing to be ashamed of!
And finally, trust yourself and your baby. You know best what you and your little one need.
